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Los Angeles, California (JFK+50) Successful television comedian Ernie Kovaks died early this morning when his Chevy Corvair crashed into a power pole at the corner of Beverly Glen & Santa Monica Boulevards here in Los Angeles.

Ernie Kovaks Promotion Photo NBC-TV (1956)

The accident took place during a rainstorm. There were no passengers in the vehicle although Kovak’s wife was driving home in her own car.

Kovaks, who always appeared on TV shows with his signature cigar, was found half-way outside the passenger side window with an unlit cigar nearby.

Ernie Kovaks, born in Trenton, New Jersey on January 13, 1919, was 42 years old. He is survived by his 2nd wife, Edie Adams. His 1st wife was Bette Wilcox.

Kovaks, a Hungarian-American, had his own TV show in Philadelphia, “Three to Get Ready”, from 1951-1952, which was the 1st regularly scheduled early morning show in a major television market.

He appeared on many television shows in a comedy role including ‘I Love Lucy’ along with his wife, Edie Adams. Kovaks also appeared in several movies.

TV critic William Henry III wrote:

“(Kovaks) was tv’s 1st significant video artist–its 1st surrealist….its most daring & imaginative writer…he was a genius…in the realm of art….someone who causes an audience to look at the world in a new way.”*

Ernie Kovaks Used Car Dealer Routine ABC Special (1960-61)

*Kovak’s funeral service was held at the Beverly Hills Community Church. The pallbearers included Jack Lemmon, Dean Martin & Frank Sinatra.